Using Proper Body Mechanics in the Garden

Gardening can be great exercise, but it can also be hard on your body and put you at risk of injury. Our presenter, a retired physical therapist, has advice that gardeners of all ages can benefit from, including the basics of Body Mechanics, strategies for preparing our bodies with warm-up exercises, and the importance of posture and strength to prevent injuries while gardening. These fundamentals will help our bodies stay fit and allow us to continue gardening safely and happily throughout life's seasons.

Join the OSU Master Gardeners for a free seminar. No registration is necessary.

About the Presenter

Rose Ahern was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. She attended Brooklyn College and then the State University of New York College of Health Related Professions. She received her degree in Physical Therapy in 1974.

Rose thoroughly loved working in this field and worked for over 40 years in various settings (in-patient, out-patient, home care). Her passion has always been Orthopedics and Kinematics (the study of movement). She frequently trained new hospital staff on Body Mechanics and Body Awareness to prevent injury while performing work duties.

A primary goal of her career has been to help others understand the importance of posture and how to promote healthy muscles and joints to keep themselves active without causing injury.

Rose started growing vegetables in the 1980's when a friend convinced her of the importance of knowing where your food comes from. She has been gardening ever since and using "proper body mechanics" to prevent strain!

Rose relocated to Eugene in 2017 and worked in a small Integrated Health Clinic until 2021 when she finally retired, and now finally has more time to spend in the garden! She became a Master Gardener in 2022 to learn more about the science of the plant world and is enjoying volunteering with the OSU Extension.

In collaboration with and in support of the OSU Extension Master Gardener™ Program. The Lane County Master Gardener Association (LCMGA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization formed in support of the OSU Extension Lane County Master Gardener program.